The uPVC vs Aluminium Windows Debate

The debate surrounding uPVC vs aluminium windows has been going on for a very long time, and coming to a conclusive resolution to the debate is not as simple as you might think. Both materials have a lot of pros and cons, and depending on your property situation, the line between them might be incredibly thin. 

For homeowners, this can be one of many difficult decisions to make. However, we want to make this process easier for you by breaking down the key advantages and disadvantages of each type of window, so you can make up your mind and decide what’s best for you. 

Contents: 

• What are Aluminium Windows?
• The Benefits of Aluminium Windows
• What are uPVC Windows? 
• The Benefits of uPVC Windows
• The Difference Between Aluminium and uPVC Windows
• Is uPVC More Expensive than Aluminium?
• Do Aluminium Windows Cause Condensation?
• Which Windows are Best for a House?

What are Aluminium Windows?

Aluminium windows are a type of window made from aluminium frames and glass panes. They are popular for their durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for use in various buildings, including homes, offices, and commercial structures. 

Aluminium windows are also lightweight and low-maintenance, which makes them a cost-effective option in the long run. They come in a range of styles, designs, and finishes, providing flexibility in aesthetics and functionality. 

They offer good thermal and acoustic insulation, making them environmentally friendly, energy-efficient and soundproof, respectively. Overall, aluminium windows are a popular choice for those seeking a modern and practical window solution.

The Benefits of Aluminium Windows

• Increased Durability and Strength
• Low Maintenance
• Energy efficient
• Aesthetically Pleasing
• Soundproofing
• Eco-friendly
• Enhanced Security
• Manufactured in Large Sizes

How Long Do Aluminium Windows Last?

What are uPVC Windows?

uPVC windows are made from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride frames and glass panes. They are a popular alternative to traditional windows due to their low maintenance, energy efficiency, and affordability.

uPVC windows are durable, weather-resistant, and offer good thermal insulation. They come in a variety of styles and finishes, allowing for customisation to match the building’s aesthetics. uPVC windows can be fitted with secure locking systems, providing an extra layer of security. Overall, uPVC windows are a practical and popular window solution with numerous benefits for homeowners and building managers.

The Benefits of uPVC Windows

• Low maintenance
• Energy efficient
• Affordable
• Enhanced Durability
• Aesthetically pleasing
• Soundproof
• Eco-friendly
• Enhanced Security
• Moisture Resistant

How Long Do UPVC Windows Last?

The Difference Between Aluminium and uPVC Windows

uPVC vs Aluminium: Aesthetics

The style of your property will have a much bigger impact on the windows you choose than you’ll initially have expected. Depending on when your property was built, the area in which it was constructed, or even the value of your property; whatever windows you eventually decide to go with will have to reflect the style you want to go with. 

If your property has a more contemporary feel to it, perhaps choosing aluminium windows over uPVC windows might be a wise decision, as it’s bound to give your property a chic and elegant edge. However, for many listed buildings or buildings that are situated in a conservation area, uPVC windows are the best route.

The best way to go about deciding what windows are right for you is to really consider the surroundings of your build, and what style would best compliment the location of your property. Making sure that the windows offer a lot of natural light into your property, and checking that the windows and doors suit your home is vital when it comes to making your final decisions.

As well as this, make sure that whatever windows you’re considering installing look exactly how you want them to, both from the outside and the inside. It is also important to remember that both aluminium and uPVC window frames are available in a range of colours, meaning that you have an extra level of customisability when it comes to creating the space you really want. Ensure that you choose the window style that best suits your property.

Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for aesthetics, take into consideration the characteristics of your house! 

uPVC vs Aluminium: Pricing

Due to manufacturing costs, as well as the type of material it is, installing a window made from aluminium is usually a lot more expensive than installing one made from uPVC. However, with aluminium being a much more withstanding and durable material, more often than not it actually proves more cost-effective to opt for aluminium windows, as they won’t need to be replaced as much as uPVC. 

If you’re looking for windows that you effectively want to install and then forget about, investing in uPVC windows would definitely be a step in the right direction for you. Not only are they usually more affordable than aluminium windows, but they also have a surprisingly long lifespan. Combined with their high resistance to rot, uPVC windows are perfect for those who are looking to install windows in a medium-sized property. 

Opting for different window types and styles could potentially save you a lot of money. For example, if you were to opt for a typical casement aluminium window, you’d be potentially looking at spending a minimum average of £500. However, a typical uPVC window would cost you significantly less, with the average price starting at £200. Keep in mind that the amount of money your windows cost will fluctuate over time and depending on a variety of factors.

Verdict: uPVC vs aluminium windows for the price, uPVC is cheaper but aluminium is much more durable. 

uPVC vs Aluminium: Maintenance 

When it comes to the maintenance of both uPVC windows and aluminium windows, there’s honestly not a lot in it: both materials are sturdy and durable, neither have a tendency to rot or warp, and both materials require a very low level of overall maintenance.

Both are also incredibly easy to clean and take care of when needed, and as long as you’ve got a cloth and a bucket of warm soapy water, you’ve got everything you need. You will not need to replace your windows for a long time.

Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for maintenance, both are very easy to care for!

uPVC vs Aluminium: Energy Efficiency

For many years, uPVC has been considered a fantastic material to use for insulation purposes, and many uPVC windows have an incredibly high level of thermal efficiency. For a similar amount of time, however, it’s been rumoured that aluminium windows just can’t provide as much insulation as uPVC windows can, or that opting for double or triple glazing is the only way to go. This rumour has recently been disproved, as although the frames still feel frosty, the heat retention is just as good.  

In recent years, technology has advanced so far that the days where aluminium windows might not have been as energy efficient as uPVC ones are officially long behind us. Due to aluminium being a highly conductive material, traditionally it’s easier for heat to pass through.

However, various modern manufacturers tend to use a material called Aerogel in their frames (especially in new builds) in order to offer a higher level of insulation. Aerogel has been used to insulate space suits, as well as space shuttles, and creates a thermal break between the panes of glass. 

In short, both aluminium windows and uPVC windows have similar levels of insulation, so there really isn’t a lot of difference between the two. We recommend checking the window energy rating (WER) before making any purchases, no matter what brand, style or material you’re considering. This will guarantee you’ll be getting the lowest energy bills you can be.

Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for energy efficiency, when going with the right supplier, both can save you money on your energy bills!

uPVC vs Aluminium: Durability

Ever since the 1980s, uPVC has been an incredibly effective and popular choice for window frames. As mentioned previously, it’s a very physically strong substance and does a fantastic job at resisting rot over long periods of time. As well as this, uPVC frames require very little maintenance, which also adds massively to their appeal. Of course, like anything, after 30 years or so the frames do have a tendency to degrade and eventually need replacing. 

High-quality aluminium frames, however, have been known to last as long as 50 years and sometimes even more. What sets aluminium apart from other metals is the fact that it doesn’t rust, meaning that your frames won’t be damaged by it as the years pass. Aluminium frames do not degrade in the same way that uPVC frames do. 

Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for durability, both are weather-resistant and durable. Aluminium can last up to 50 years, whereas uPVC will last up to 30 years.

uPVC vs Aluminium: Security

One of the key advantages of opting for uPVC windows over aluminium windows is the amount of sound from the outside world that they tend to block out. Although aluminium windows are still functional when it comes to soundproofing, uPVC ultimately blocks out a lot more noise, thus making your property a lot safer. 

As both materials are known for being durable and withstanding, whichever window you decide on is bound to be secure. Both uPVC windows and aluminium windows are going to be a lot stronger than timber windows, which are more susceptible to rotting and breakages over long periods of time. 

We also recommend investing in windows with high-quality locks installed, no matter what material of window you opt for in the end. As long as your locks are going to stand the test of time, and have modern locking mechanisms, then your windows and property have a higher chance of being secure for longer. 

Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for security, both are safe and will protect your home from potential intruders!

Is uPVC More Expensive than Aluminium?

The cost of uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) and aluminium windows and doors can vary depending on a range of factors such as quality, size, style, and location.

However, in general, uPVC tends to be less expensive than aluminium. This is because uPVC is a cheaper material to produce and install than aluminium, which requires more complex manufacturing processes. 

Aluminium is a more durable and longer-lasting material than uPVC, which may make it a more cost-effective option in the long term. Ultimately, the cost difference between uPVC and aluminium will depend on individual circumstances and preferences.

Do Aluminium Windows Cause Condensation?

Aluminium windows do not directly cause condensation. Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a colder surface, causing the moisture in the air to condense into water droplets. 

However, aluminium windows may contribute to condensation if they are not properly insulated or if they allow cold air to enter the building. If the window frames are colder than the indoor air, they may create a surface where moisture can condense. To prevent condensation on aluminium windows, it is important to ensure proper ventilation, insulation, and maintenance of the windows.

Which Windows are Best for a House?

The choice between aluminium and uPVC windows for a house depends on factors such as budget, style, durability, and energy efficiency. uPVC windows are affordable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance but may not be as durable as aluminium. 

Aluminium windows are strong, durable, and weather-resistant but more expensive and less energy-efficient than uPVC. Ultimately, the best window will depend on individual preferences and requirements.

uPVC vs Aluminium Conclusion

It’s safe to say that both uPVC and aluminium windows have their advantages and disadvantages, and it’s impossible to state that one is simply better than the other. When it comes to deciding on windows for your property, we recommend going for the windows that best align with your priorities and personal preferences. There are so many factors to consider, the debate as to which material is better will likely never reach a solid resolution. 

We recommend that if you’re still struggling to reach a decision regarding your choice of windows, you should get in touch with our friendly team at BJH today. You can request a quote, enquire about our business, or simply chat to one of our window experts about what we can do for you and your property. 

BJH Windows and Conservatories are based in Hampshire. We have a wealth of experience in fitting aluminium and uPVC windows. For more information on our services within your local area, visit one of the below web pages.

Double Glazing Hampshire | Double Glazing Isle of Wight | Double Glazing Southampton | Double Glazing Portsmouth | Double Glazing Fareham | Double Glazing Waterlooville | Double Glazing Chichester | Conservatories Isle of Wight | Conservatories Portsmouth | Conservatories Southampton | Conservatories Hampshire | Conservatories Fareham | Conservatories Chichester | Conservatories West Sussex

About the Author

Colin Giles

Director

I joined BJH Windows & Conservatories in 1999 after many years in Fast Moving Consumer Goods within the retail industry as well as gaining the necessary experience required in the double glazing industry.

Moving to BJH was one of the best career moves I could have made. I pride myself on still working with customers closely on a daily basis.